Egypt, located in the northeast corner of Africa, is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landmarks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an adventurer, Egypt should be on your travel bucket list. Among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Egypt is home to the iconic Pyramid of Giza, the only remaining wonder still standing. Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to this fascinating destination? Here’s your ultimate 6 days Egypt itinerary to plan your trip to Egypt for an unforgettable experience.

How to Reach Egypt?

The easiest way for most international travelers to reach Egypt is by flying into one of the country’s major international airports. Most visitors typically land at Cairo International Airport (CAI), the gateway to Egypt’s cultural capital. From here, you can start your journey exploring Egypt’s ancient monuments, cities, and beautiful landscapes.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Egypt?

Yes, nationals from most countries require a visa to visit Egypt. However, the process may vary depending on your nationality. Here are the three main ways to obtain an Egyptian visa:

Apply for an eVisa
The most convenient option is to apply for an eVisa online. However, nationals of some countries (like India) must first obtain an Authorized Travel Agent Letter of Invitation before they can apply for an eVisa. If you are traveling with an organized tour, your tour operator can help you get this letter. Alternatively, you can use authorized visa services like Atlys, which provides the necessary Travel Agent Letter of Invitation with every eVisa application.We personally used Atlys to apply for our Egypt eVisa, and the process was incredibly easy and hassle-free. They are an authorized travel agent, ensuring that your eVisa application is smooth and secure.

Apply at an Egyptian Embassy/Consulate
If you’re not eligible for the eVisa or prefer not to use an online service, you can apply for a visa at the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Visa on Arrival
Nationals from certain countries may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival at Egypt’s airports. If you choose this option, be prepared to wait in line to process your visa upon arrival.

Best Time to Visit Egypt

Egypt enjoys a warm climate, but the best time to visit depends on your preference for weather and activities.

• Winter (November to April): This is the peak tourist season, offering pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler evenings. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, although it can get quite chilly at night. January may experience some rainfall. We visited Egypt in December and had a fantastic time. 
• Summer (May to October): Expect extremely hot and dry conditions, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). This is the low tourist season, so attractions are less crowded and accommodations may be cheaper.

Travel Day: Arrival at Cairo International Airport

Upon landing at Cairo International Airport, you’ll experience the start of your Egyptian adventure. Here’s what you can expect:

Immigration Experience

Our immigration process was smooth and hassle-free. We were only asked to show our passports—there was no request for our eVisa or the Authorized Travel Agent Letter of Invitation. This suggests that airport officials may have access to your visa details linked to your passport number. However, to avoid any potential issues, it’s still a good idea to have all your travel documents ready.

Airport to Hotel Transport

We recommend arranging your airport transfer in advance to avoid the potential hassle of negotiating with taxi drivers. Local taxis can sometimes be overpriced, and there’s a risk of being scammed if you’re not familiar with the area. Pre-booking a transfer will ensure you arrive at your hotel with ease and without stress.

Stay Connected with e-SIM

Stay connected with your friends and family throughout your Egyptian adventure with an e-SIM. There’s no need to wait in long lines or purchase a physical SIM card at the airport. Simply buy an Egypt e-SIM before your trip, and as soon as you land, you can activate it and start using your mobile data.

Day 1: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and More

On Day 1, dive into the heart of ancient Egypt, starting with the lesser-known but fascinating Dashur. Here, explore the Bent Pyramid, with its unique shape, and the nearby Red Pyramid, Egypt’s first true smooth-sided pyramid, both offering a quieter, more reflective experience compared to Giza’s crowds. Next, head to Saqqara to visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s first pyramid, and wander through the surrounding tombs, uncovering ancient burial practices.

Afterward, visit Memphis, Egypt’s first capital, where the colossal statue of Ramses II stands as a testament to the grandeur of the past. End the day at the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Read Next – Pyramids of Giza Travel Guide

Day 2: Cairo – Old Town, Bazaar, and Museum

On Day 2, immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history, starting with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, home to over 120,000 artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb and ancient mummies.

Then, head to the Cairo Citadel, a medieval fortress offering stunning city views and housing the iconic Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Next, dive into the bustling atmosphere of Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can shop for Egyptian crafts, spices, and jewelry while honing your bargaining skills.

After a day of discovery, catch a flight to Luxor, where you’ll check into your hotel and rest, ready for the next phase of your Egyptian adventure.

Read Next – Cairo Travel Guide

Day 3: Luxor – Explore the West Bank of the Nile

On Day 3, delve into the ancient wonders of Luxor, starting with the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I are carved into the cliffs. Inside, the vibrant frescoes and hieroglyphs offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.

Then, head to the nearby Valley of the Queens, the burial ground for royal women, including the stunning tomb of Nefertari, known for its well-preserved frescoes. Finish your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Temple of Hatshepsut, a monumental tribute to Egypt’s female pharaoh, with its dramatic terraces and intricate reliefs set against the desert landscape.

Day 4: Luxor – Explore the East Bank of the Nile

On Day 4 in Luxor, begin your journey at Luxor Temple, a stunning monument dedicated to the Theban Triad of gods, featuring towering statues of Ramses II and the massive Obelisk of Luxor. As you explore this beautifully preserved site, you’ll be captivated by its grandeur, especially when lit up at night.

Next, visit Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex in Egypt, where you’ll wander through the monumental Hypostyle Hall, home to 134 massive columns. The sheer scale of this sprawling temple complex is awe-inspiring.

In the evening, experience the magical Karnak Light and Sound Show, where the history of the temple is brought to life through dramatic lighting and music, offering a mystical view of this ancient site under the stars.

Day 5: Luxor – Day Trip to Edfu and Kom Ombo

On Day 5, take a day trip from Luxor and start your exploration with the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. Built during the Ptolemaic period, the temple’s massive pylon entrance, towering columns, and intricate reliefs tell the story of Horus’s battle with the evil god Set.

Afterward, head to Kom Ombo to discover the unique double temple dedicated to both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god. The symmetrical design, featuring two sanctuaries and stunning reliefs, showcases the intertwining of religion and medicine in ancient Egypt, with depictions of crocodile mummification and sacred medical tools. These temples offer a deep dive into ancient Egyptian architecture, religious practices, and their powerful connection to the gods.

Read Next – Luxor Travel Guide

Day 6: Luxor – Relax and Reflect on Your Egyptian Adventure

On the final day of your Egyptian adventure, unwind with a peaceful Felucca boat trip on the Nile River. This traditional wooden sailboat offers a serene cruise through Luxor’s lush banks, providing a calm, scenic perspective of the temples and monuments you’ve explored over the past days. As the gentle breeze and golden morning light envelop you, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the wonders of Egypt.

After the boat trip, enjoy some free time to relax—whether lounging at your hotel, sipping tea by the Nile, or strolling through the tranquil streets of Luxor. In the late evening, check out from your hotel and head to Luxor International Airport, bringing home cherished memories of Egypt’s ancient treasures and vibrant culture.

Which Travel Style is Right for You? – Organized Tour, DIY, or Hybrid

When planning a trip to Egypt, there are three main ways to approach your travel experience. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your preferences, budget, and how much planning you want to do. Let’s take a closer look at each approach:

Option 1: Organized Tours

An organized tour is a great choice if you want a hassle-free experience with everything taken care of for you. This type of tour is typically all-inclusive, meaning the operator handles your itinerary, transportation, accommodations, and sometimes even meals. It’s a great option if you’re looking for convenience and don’t want to spend time figuring out the logistics.

Pros

• Everything is planned for you, so you can just show up and enjoy the experience.
• Guided tours provide insights into historical sites, helping you understand the significance of monuments and landmarks.
• You don’t have to worry about booking hotels, arranging transportation, or figuring out the best places to visit.

Cons

• Can be expensive, depending on the tour company.
• Less flexibility as you follow a fixed schedule.
• Limited free time to explore on your own.

Best for travelers who prefer a relaxed experience with no stress, and those who enjoy the comfort of knowing everything is taken care of.

Option 2: DIY (Do-It-Yourself)

With the DIY approach, you’ll take full control of your trip. You’ll be responsible for planning the itinerary, booking hotels, arranging transportation, and deciding which sites to visit. If you’re a confident traveler who enjoys the independence of exploring on your own, this can be the most cost-effective option.

Pros

• Complete flexibility to choose your destinations, budget, and activities.
• No fixed schedules or group tours—you explore at your own pace.
• Potential for significant savings by avoiding tour companies and booking directly.

Cons

• Requires time and effort for planning (research, bookings, etc.).
• Without a guide, you may miss out on deeper historical context and insights at key monuments.
• More risk in navigating unfamiliar places, especially if you’re not comfortable with the local language or transportation system.

Best for budget-conscious travelers who love the freedom to explore on their own and are comfortable handling logistics.

Option 3: Hybrid Approach (Combination of Organized Tours & DIY)

The hybrid approach is a balanced option that combines elements of both the organized tour and DIY approaches. You’ll plan the major parts of your trip—such as your itinerary, transportation, and accommodations—on your own. However, for specific sites and landmarks, you’ll hire a local guide or book private tours to get in-depth knowledge and enrich your experience.

Pros

• Flexibility to tailor your trip to your own interests and preferences.
• Ability to enjoy the convenience and expert knowledge of guided tours without losing the independence of planning the rest of your trip.
• Opportunity to learn more about Egypt’s ancient history and culture through expert guides at key historical sites, like the Pyramids or the Valley of the Kings.

Cons

• Requires some planning and research to select the right tours and decide which sites are worth a guide.
• While you save money compared to a full tour package, the cost of private guides or tours can add up.

Best for travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience but also want to deepen their understanding of Egypt’s ancient sites with expert guides.

Our Personal Experience

We personally chose Option 3, the hybrid approach, and we absolutely loved it! We enjoyed the freedom to plan and explore Egypt on our terms, but also opted for private tours at key sites to fully appreciate the history and significance of the ancient monuments.

Here are the tours we took during our trip:

• Day 1 – Giza: Private Tour of the Giza Pyramids, Memphis City, Sakkara and Dahshur
• Day 2 – Cairo: Private Tour of Citadel, Egyptian Museum and Bazaar
• Day 3 – Luxor: Private Tour West Bank Luxor Tour (Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, and Hatshepsut Temple)
• Day 4 – Luxor: Private Tour of Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple
• Day 4 – Luxor: Karnak Temple sound and light show ticket with transfer
• Day 5 – Luxor: Day Trip to Edfu and Komo Ombo Temple

Another benefit of this hybrid approach was the opportunity to save on travel costs. Since we planned most of the trip ourselves, we were able to use points and miles to book flights and accommodations. This reduced the overall cost of our trip significantly, making it more budget-friendly while still offering a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Where to Stay ?

When planning your trip to Egypt, choosing the right accommodation is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Remember not all hotels in Egypt live up to their star ratings. Some properties may not meet international standards, and travelers can sometimes face issues with scams or misrepresentation. Choosing well-known brands or hotels recommended by fellow travelers can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable stay.

Based on our personal experiences, here are two fantastic hotels we recommend in Cairo and Luxor.

• Cairo : Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino
• Luxor : Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Make sure to explore other options as well, depending on your travel dates and budget

What to Eat in Egypt?

Egyptian cuisine is as rich and diverse as its ancient history, with flavors and dishes that reflect the country’s cultural influences over thousands of years. From savory street food like koshari (a hearty mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and crispy onions) to the iconic ful medames (fava beans with olive oil and spices), there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t forget to try Basbousa for a sweet end to your meal. For a deeper dive into Egyptian food, be sure to check out our food blog for more recommendations.

Read Next – Egypt Food Guide

Plan Your Dream Trip

You can use this Egypt travel guide as a starting point to plan your own adventure and customize it to fit your unique needs and interests. Make sure to pin this one-stop guide for easy access while you plan your dream vacation. You’ll have all the tips and recommendations right at your fingertips as you prepare for your Egyptian adventure. Happy planning, and we wish you a journey full of discovery, wonder, and adventure!